Skimmer 2 Roger Bansemer

The watercolor presents a group of birds wading in shallow water. The composition is dominated by these avian figures, arranged across the horizontal plane with a sense of quiet movement and observation. Each bird exhibits distinct postures – some appear poised for flight, others are actively foraging, while one seems to be looking directly outward. Their plumage displays a striking contrast between black and white, punctuated by orange-red beaks and legs, which draw immediate attention.
The artist has rendered the water with subtle gradations of pale yellow and beige, creating an impression of diffused light reflecting off its surface. The lack of distinct horizon line contributes to a feeling of spaciousness and ambiguity; it is difficult to discern whether the birds are situated on a lake, a mudflat, or some other body of water. This deliberate vagueness enhances the painting’s contemplative mood.
The framing border, rendered in a muted teal color, isolates the scene, further emphasizing its stillness and detachment from any specific location. The limited palette reinforces this sense of tranquility and focus on the birds themselves.
Subtextually, the work evokes themes of natural cycles and the quiet persistence of life within an environment. The birds’ behavior – their foraging, alertness, and readiness for flight – suggests a constant negotiation with their surroundings. Theres a suggestion of community or shared purpose in their grouping, yet each bird maintains its individual presence. The painting might be interpreted as a meditation on observation itself; the artist seems to invite the viewer to share in the act of quietly watching these creatures within their habitat.